Basement Update

Everyone has been asking about how the basement is coming along. We haven't had much time to write about it because we've been working like maniacs to get it finished in time for Christmas. And, when I say "we" I mean Dad. Mom and I have helped some, but mostly it has been Dad working every day, at least 10 or 12 hours every day. He has been crucial to this process and it never would have happened without his hard work. Thanks Dad! 

One of the first things that had to be done was putting up tile in the showers. This guy was a good sport about having his picture taken. Dad was under the gun to get the bathrooms primed and painted before the tile was laid. 

This is several days into the painting process, when I finally came on the scene with the camera. Turns out, there is much more to "painting" than just slapping on the paint. Dad had to do caulking, spackeling, primer (sometimes several coats of primer), sanding, and then finally it was time to paint. 

Then the bathroom cabinets were installed

The painting became such an ordeal that we had to recruit some professional help. Luckily, we know this guy who is more than happy to paint all day long. 

Then the countertops were installed. Mom had to make some quick decisions on the material and coloring, and as you can see, she did an excellent job. 

This is what the basement looked like for the better part of two weeks. Painting central. The picture doesn't really do justice to how hectic things were down there. 

Even through long hours and backaches, Dad had a calm and positive attitude. 

Mom even took a few days off work to help with the painting projects too. It was fun to have her helping. 

Slate tiles were laid around the fireplace, which required lots of measuring and cutting on a very loud machine. 

The cement floors had to be evened out before tile can be put down. This is  the "kitchen". 

Dad is painting the difficult areas, Mom is doing the detail-oriented caulking, and I am taking pictures.
I guess we all have our talents. ;) 

The sun was so bright that she needed sunglasses to do her work. It doesn't hurt that she looks cute, either. 

After all the painting was finally done, the process of putting in carpet began. First they had to lay down this padding. 

While the carpet was being installed, the tile floors in the kitchen were also being put in. 

First section of carpet. It is soft and a nice warm brown color. 

Now, Mom's part of the process really begins. She used these samples to furnish the downstairs. She has been busy buying mattresses, bedspreads, lamps, chairs, sofas, coffee tables, artwork, plants, and appliances. Things are really starting to come together. 

The sinks, shower rods, curtain rods, and mirrors are up in both bathrooms now. 

Appliances have been delivered! Unfortunately, the kitchen won't be operational until after Christmas, but its close! 

We have begun the process of moving the furniture into the rooms, and it is looking awesome! This room will soon be transformed into the "jungle room", which will have a king bed, a toddler bed, and a pullout sleeper sofa. Lots of room for (hopefully) lots of visitors! 

These two have been very involved in the process, as well. They are Dad's cheerleaders and have helped to keep his spirits high during all of this hard work.

We can't wait for you guys to see the finished product! Everything smells fresh and new, and it will be so nice to have the huge basement filled with kids and grandkids!
Just in case you guys want to know, this is the anticipated Christmas schedule....
JJ & Jen: Dec 21--Jan 1 (may spend a day or two in Salt Lake at the end of their trip)
Ryan & Heather: Dec 25--27
Roo & Annie: Dec 26--Jan 1 (may spend a few days in Salt Lake at the end of their trip)
Barratt & Marci: Dec 27 (or later)--Jan 1

Merry Christmas!